Litter box problems: Prevention and treatment 

Cats are very particular, especially when it comes to their litter box. Roughly 10% of all cats develop litter box problems in their lifetime. While some problems can be easily identified and fixed, others are more complex. Listed below are some common problems, and some simple solutions. 

Medical Conditions:
Before trying some litter box solutions, it is important to rule out potential medical conditions with a trip to the vet. Here are some common illnesses to look for:

• Urinary tract infection (UTI). If your cat makes frequent trips to litter box but only produces small amounts of urine, your cat may have a UTI. 
• Feline interstitial cystitis. Feline interstitial cystitis is a neurological disease that causes bladder inflammation. It can also cause cats to urinate outside the litter box. 
• Bladder stones or blockage. If your cat has bladder stones or a blockage, they may frequently enter the litter box. They may also experience pain and cry when they try to use the litter box. Their abdomen may be sore and tender to the touch.

Common Causes:

• An unclean litter box.
• Not enough boxes for the number of cats in the household.
• A litter box with tall sides, a hood, or a liner.
• Too much litter in the box.
• A location that doesn’t allow for privacy or escape routes. 
• A change in brand of litter
• Strongly scented litter
• Negative associations with using the litter box.
• Stress factors such as moving, adding new animals, or new family members to the household. 
• A conflict with another cat or pet in the household.

Solutions: 

• Scoop litter at least once a day and change it weekly.
• Thoroughly rinse out the box with baking soda or unscented soap once a week.
• Use less litter; 2-3 inches is ideal.
• Use a larger litter box.
• Use clumping, unscented litter, or try the litter your cat used as a kitten. 
• Don’t use box liners or lids.
• Try a self-cleaning box, which is typically cleaner than a traditional litter box.
• Relocate. Move the litter box to a quiet, dimly lit location where your cat can watch for anyone approaching and escape quickly. The litter box should not be near food or water bowls. 
• Place a few litter boxes in different locations, away from children or other animals in a quiet area of your home. If your cat is old or has limited mobility, make sure to use a box with low sides.
• Provide a litter box for each of your cats, plus one extra. If you live in a multi-story residence, place a box on each floor.

What Not to Do:

• Do not rub her nose in urine or feces.
• Do not scold her and carry or drag her to the litter box.
• Do not place the litter box near where pets eat or drink.
• Do not give her treats to tempt her to use the litter box. However, you can place toys and treats near the litter box.
• Use enzymatic cleanser (not an ammonia-based cleanser) to clean up accidents. Then, cover the area with foil or plastic wrap and block it off for a few weeks to give the neutralizer time to work.

References:

Edgar, Julie. “Cat Litter Box Problems: Prevention & Treatment.” WebMD, WebMD, pets.webmd.com/cats/guide/solving-cat-litter-box-problems#1.
“Litter Box Problems.” ASPCA, www.aspca.org/pet-care/cat-care/common-cat-behavior-issues/litter-box-problems.